Courtesy photo
Among the competitors in the recent Portsmouth Elks Hoop Shoot were Michael O’Regan, left, and Arjay Sidney. O’Regan edged Sidney in the 8/9-year-old age group.

PORTSMOUTH – The Portsmouth Elks held local qualifying for the 2012 Elks Hoop Shoot at the new Connie Bean Center recently, with three local children advancing to next month’s Southern New Hampshire competition.

While no girls competed in this year’s Hoop Shoot, a pair of brothers from Exeter won their respective age groups.

In the 10/11-year-old age group, Josh Morissette converted 17 of 25 free throws. In the 12/13-year-old group, older brother Cody Morissette knocked down 18 of 25.

“The Morissettes have attended this event every year since they’ve been eligible,” said event chairman Stan Maddock. “They’re terrific young athletes and look so natural at the free throw line. Nothing seems to bother them.”

In the 10/11 group, second place went to Zachary Nelson-Morris, while Luke Bouchard finished third. In the 12/13 group, Drew Hudson finished second, with Max Sirmaian in third place.

Michael O’Regan was winner of the 8/9-year-old age group, hitting 12 of 25 free throws. He edged Arjay Sidney, who finished second.

Judging by their scores, the local winners will stand a very strong chance to advance through the upcoming district, state and regional competitions. Portsmouth will play host for the State Finals on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, at Portsmouth High School. Winners there will have the chance to move onto the New England Regional competition and ultimately to the National Hoop Shoot championship, which will be held at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass., in April.

As always, the Elks Hoop Shoot was greatly aided by the help of volunteers. Portsmouth High School girls basketball players Christina Jones and Phoebe Collins represented coach Dan Parr’s varsity Clippers.